OpenAI is preparing to roll out age verification features for ChatGPT this December, marking a major step toward allowing adult content and erotica discussions on the platform. According to a report by The Information, this update comes as OpenAI seeks to balance safety regulations with user freedom and maintain engagement across its growing global audience.
Since August, ChatGPT introduced stricter content restrictions and parental controls to limit access to sensitive topics for minors, including discussions related to adult themes or mental health issues like suicide. While these measures improved safety, OpenAI noticed a slight decline in user engagement, prompting the company to explore more flexible access for verified adult users.
CEO Sam Altman confirmed earlier that ChatGPT’s age verification system would arrive by the end of the year, though the exact verification process remains undisclosed. Experts suggest the system could involve document verification or voluntary user confirmation to ensure compliance while protecting user privacy.
Beyond safety, this move could significantly impact ChatGPT Plus and Pro subscriptions, helping OpenAI increase premium adoption rates. Reports show that as of July 2025, around 35 million users subscribed to paid ChatGPT plans—about 5% of the total user base. The company aims to grow that number to 8.6% by 2030, projecting around 220 million paying users from an estimated 2.6 billion weekly active users.
Even without premium access, ChatGPT continues to offer powerful features like web browsing, AI image generation, custom GPTs, and coding support. However, the introduction of verified adult content access could open a new wave of personalization and engagement for mature users seeking more creative freedom, particularly in storytelling, roleplay, and relationship-based chat interactions.
OpenAI’s December update could arrive as part of its annual feature showcase, possibly under a “12 Days of OpenAI” event, similar to last year’s Christmas launch campaign. The upcoming rollout not only highlights OpenAI’s commitment to innovation but also reflects its approach to evolving AI regulations, user autonomy, and age-appropriate content safety.
